Eight kids just broke the 2019 National Spelling Bee

In an incredible finale, 2019 National Spelling Bee ended with not one but eight co-champions.

At the end of the 17th round, three hours into the Scripps-sponsored competition, longtime announcer Jacques Bailly made a startling declaration: All remaining spellers at end of the final's 20th round would be named a co-champion.

"We are now in uncharted territory. We do have plenty of words remaining on our list, but we'll soon run out of words that could possibly challenge you," Bailly said. "We're throwing the dictionary at you, and you’re showing the dictionary who’s boss."

It became a three-round playoff against the eight remaining spellers, who would each take home a $50,000 prize if they survived at the end of the final, which took place on Thursday.

Dr. Bailly just announced we're in uncharted territory. We won't run out of words but may run out of words to challenge our most storied spellers in Bee history. At Rd 20, 3 away, all remaining spellers will be named Co-Champions of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. #spellingbee

Raja, alongside Rishik Gandhasri, Erin Howard, Saketh Sundar, Shruthika Padhy, Sohum Sukhatankar, Abhijay Kodali, and Christopher Serrao were named co-champions, who each take home $50,000, as well as a Scripps Cup trophy.

Your first official look at our 2019 Scripps National Spelling Bee Co-Champions. Each speller will receive a Scripps Cup and $50,000 cash prize from Scripps. After 20 rounds of intensive, record-breaking competition, they're all going home as winners. #spellingbeepic.twitter.com/8nRzDAk5dc